The Dodgers’ pursuit of Chicago’s ace Garrett Crochet has hit a snag, as the White Sox’s trade demands have been deemed a bit expensive by the Boys in Blue. The team, eager to bolster their rotation for a playoff push, made an initial offer for Crochet, but it was swiftly rejected by the White Sox. The failed bid raises questions about their willingness to meet the selling team’s high demands.

Crochet’s contract situation adds another layer of complexity—he is making a mere $800,000 this season and is under team control through 2026, making him an attractive long-term investment for any team. But what will it take for the Dodgers to land him?

The rejection they faced is unsurprising, to say the least, considering the intense interest in the young lefty. 15 teams have expressed a desire for Garrett Crochet, who is having a career year with a 3.05 ERA and a league-leading 130 strikeouts. The White Sox, in full rebuild mode, are seeking “young prospects with enormous upside” in return for their prized asset, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reports.

A potential deal for Crochet would likely involve parting with multiple top prospects from the Blue Crews’ farm system. This could be a tough pill to swallow, as they’ve historically been hesitant to trade away young talent. However, the potential reward of acquiring a budding ace like Crochet might be too tempting. The White Sox’s motivation is clear: with the worst record in baseball, they’re focused on rebuilding. This trade allows them to capitalize on peak value, acquiring assets that can contribute to their success.

But are the Dodgers ready to pay?

Dodgers in a south-side standoff with White Sox as they drive a hard bargain on Garrett Crochet

Crochet’s injury history is a factor that complicates a trade. He missed the entire 2022 season because of Tommy John surgery and has already surpassed his previous career-high in innings pitched this year. The White Sox are keen to avoid the risk of injury diminishing his value even more and are incentivized to trade him now. However, this risk might also deter potential suitors from meeting lofty demands.

The White Sox’s asking price for Garrett Crochet is a clear reflection of his immense talent. They believe he has the makings of a frontline starter and seek a package that can match his value. The Blue Crew, on the other hand, must weigh the risk of sacrificing their future for a short-term boost.

The stalemate between the Dodgers and White Sox raises the possibility of other teams swooping in. The New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, and Cleveland Guardians have all been mentioned as potential suitors.

The next few weeks will be crucial in determining Crochet’s fate. The White Sox are firm in their demands, and the Dodgers must decide whether to meet them or move on. The stakes are high, and the outcome of this trade saga could have a significant impact on the landscape of the National League pennant race.

The doubt remains: will the Blue Crew let another team seize the opportunity to acquire Garrett Crochet? Only the future holds the answer.